A heavy rainstorm has finally stopped. Or maybe a long winter has finally ended, and the deep snows have begun to melt. While good weather may seem like a relief, the potential for water damage may just be beginning. Storm water runoff can quickly overwhelm natural and manmade systems, leading to flooding and property damage. The steps you take today to prepare your home and yard for proper drainage can help avoid time-consuming and costly repairs when the bad weather does blow through.

In a natural environment, storm water runoff is absorbed by soil, evaporates into the atmosphere or flows into bodies of water, such as streams, lakes or rivers. Homeowners may need to recreate the natural environment on their property to address storm water runoff. This includes planting trees and other vegetation, building rain gardens and installing rain barrels or cisterns to collect roof water.

How Can You Protect Your Home from Storm Water?

“The key to developing a yard drainage plan is to understand the specific characteristics of your property and implement the system that works best for you,” says Mike Koppang, a Travelers Risk Control professional. During a storm, you can go outside and observe how the water flows. Take note of the different grades and slopes and whether they divert the flowing water away from your home. Look for any low spots that collect or pool water and for any steep slopes that have indications of surface erosion.

Consider the steps needed to protect your property from water runoff. Rain that falls on roofs, driveways, patios, roads and other impervious areas moves across the ground surface at greater speeds. The property adjacent to these areas could be more susceptible to damage. Frozen soil can also increase risk of damage by preventing water from being absorbed by the soil. Replacing impervious areas with pervious surfaces, such as permeable paving stones or pavers, can also help.

Other questions you might consider:

Is storm water that falls on impervious surfaces diverted away from your house? This is the work of things like roof gutter downspouts, driveways, walkways and patios. Runoff from these surfaces should be directed to an area that has the ability to absorb or slow the surface flow, such as landscaped areas, and away from your house.

Does your house have a stream, pond or lake close by? Consider the flood potential and how it may impact your property. You can research local flood maps that will detail flood water levels for various storm events and their flood potential.

Does your driveway or other impervious surface have a negative pitch back toward the house? Consider installing trench drains or area drains to help prevent pooling and divert water away from the house.

Do you have retaining walls on your property? If so, it is important that the walls have a drainage system in place to alleviate pressure behind the wall. Periodically clean weep holes to ensure they are not clogged. Surface water should not be allowed to cascade over the top of the wall and instead should be diverted to the end of the wall or around it.

Is a portion of your house below ground level, such as a basement? Make sure any sewer and water lines, or any other pipes or lines that penetrate subsurface walls, and foundation cracks are properly sealed. Basements that are prone to water intrusion should have a water collection system in place, such as a sump pump system. This system should be maintained with a battery backup for continued operation in the event of a power failure. Consider elevating mechanical systems or installing curbs around areas that need protecting but cannot be elevated, such as finished areas and storage areas. Exterior basement window wells should have covers and the ground surface of the well should be below the well rim.

Do you have a sewer or septic system and property with known high-water tables? Have the system checked by a professional. If the groundwater rises too high, it can affect the efficiency and operation of the system. In some cases, this may lead to sewer back up or waste leaching above the ground or back into the house.

Surface storm water is not the only consideration for protecting your home. It is also important to assess the functionality of your whole home envelope system. Make sure that your house exterior is maintained, including roofing, flashings, weather barriers, windows, doors and sealants.

While you cannot prevent against all damage from storm water runoff during large acts of nature, these steps can help protect your home when storms do hit. A homeowners insurance policy through us can help protect your home during Spring storms. Contact us for a quote today.

Source: https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/maintenance/protecting-your-home-from-storm-water-damage

Because seasonal changes affect your vehicle in a multitude of ways, it’s important to prepare for the transition from summer to fall. You’ll want to keep up on regular vehicle maintenance, while also paying close attention to season-specific car care tasks.

Essential Fall Vehicle Maintenance Tips 

Check the Fluids

Checking your vehicle’s fluids is one of the most critical car care routines. The various fluids lubricate, cool, and perform other vital functions that help keep your car running and driving.

Take a few minutes to check the fluids under the hood, including the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. You’ll also want to check the automatic transmission fluid (if your car has a dipstick) and the power steering fluid (if your car has hydraulic power steering).

Warning: Never remove the cooling system cap when the engine is hot. Severe injury may result. Only check the coolant level and condition when the engine is cool.

Many vehicles also have assemblies, such as the differential and transfer case, that are located underneath the vehicle. You should check the fluids in these units regularly. If you have the know-how, you can safely raise and support the vehicle, then check the fluids yourself. You can also choose to have a professional do the job for you.

Inspect the Tires

We get it⁠—tires are about as exciting as an afternoon at the DMV. However, that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Tires are super important because they affect the braking ability, handling performance, and overall safety of your vehicle.

Take a few moments to inspect your car’s tires to ensure they’re in good condition. First, you’ll want to check tread depth using a dedicated gauge. Take the measurement at three points across the tire: the outer tread, the center tread, and the inner tread.

If there’s 4/32” of tread remaining at any point, most professionals recommend replacing the tires. A tread depth reading of 2/32” or less indicates the tires are a safety hazard and should be replaced immediately.

You should also check the tire pressure with a dedicated gauge. When checking the pressure, ensure that the tires are inflated to the specification listed on the placard inside the door jamb. Do NOT set the pressure to the reading on the tire’s sidewall—that’s the maximum pressure.

If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor (or an air pump at the gas station) to add air. In the case that the pressure is too high, you can let air out of the tire by pressing down on the tip of the valve stem core with a pocket screwdriver.

Make Sure All of the Lights Work

Sadly, the long summer days will soon be coming to an end. Because nighttime comes earlier during the fall, you’re more likely to be driving when it’s dark out. Before that happens, get a friend to help you make sure all of your car’s exterior lights (including the brake lights and reverse lights) are working correctly.

A non-functional light usually indicates a burnt-out bulb. While replacing a bulb is usually a simple task, there are instances where the job can be difficult. For example, on some vehicles, the front fascia must be removed to access the headlight bulb.

Bulb replacement instructions can usually be found in your car’s owner’s manual. By reviewing the instructions, you’ll get an idea of whether the job is something you can handle on your own.

You can always have a professional change the bulb if the task seems too difficult.

Check the Wiper Blades

The fall season often brings rain and sometimes even snow. You’ll want to make sure your car’s wiper blades are in good shape to deal with these conditions.

To check the wiper blades, turn on both the wipers and windshield washers. A good set of blades should produce a streak-free sweep and leave the windshield clear.

Replace the wiper blades if they do not perform well.

You’ll also want to consider the washer fluid. There are winter blends, which are designed to resist freezing, and summer blends for warmer weather. When the temperatures start to drop, you’ll want to make sure you have a winter blend in your car’s washer fluid reservoir.

Inspect the Brakes

We don’t need to remind you of the importance of your car’s brakes, do we? You (or your mechanic) should check the brakes a least twice a year to ensure they’re in good condition. Right now, before the snow starts to fly, is the perfect time to take a peek.

How do you know when your brake pads are worn out? When there’s 4mm of friction material remaining, most professionals recommend replacing the brake pads (and usually replacing or resurfacing the brake discs). A reading of 3mm or less indicates the brake pads are a safety hazard and should be replaced immediately.

Make Sure the Heater is Working

If you’re like most drivers, you didn’t turn your car’s heater on at all during the summer. But soon, the weather will get cold and you’ll be pining for a warm cabin once again.

It’s a good idea to test your vehicle’s heater before the temperatures start to drop. Automotive heating systems rely on hot engine coolant, so if the heater is blowing cold air, you likely have a problem somewhere within the cooling system. For example, the thermostat may be stuck open, the water pump may be faulty, or the heater core could be clogged.

If you have the know-how, you can troubleshoot the problem yourself. Otherwise, you may want to have a professional diagnose and repair the issue.

Take Care of Any Outstanding Maintenance

Remember that booklet, called the owner’s manual, that’s buried in your glovebox? Dust it off and turn to the section that covers the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule⁠—you’ll find the suggested intervals for the routine services the automaker recommends.

Is your car due (or overdue) for service? Then take care of it now. Lack of maintenance is one of the most common—if not the most common—reasons for mechanical breakdowns.

Address Any Known Problems

Car problems left ignored often snowball into big-time concerns. For example, a leaking radiator hose can lead to a low coolant level, overheating, and catastrophic engine damage.

Ignoring issues can also leave you stranded on a chilly fall morning. Address any known problems now to prevent further headaches.

Store Classic Cars and Other Toys 

Most people put their classic cars and other toys into storage once summer is over. Of course, the best place to store your ride is in the garage. But if you don’t have access to covered parking, a car cover is the next best option.

Be sure to select the correct type of cover; some are designed for outdoor use, while others are for indoor use. Also, park the vehicle in a safe location that’s protected from the elements as much as possible.

Then, follow the product instructions to install and secure the cover.

Accessorize for the Season

You might start accessorizing for the fall season by picking up, say, a fluffy scarf or warm beanie. While you’re at it, don’t forget that you can also accessorize your car with practical upgrades, such as floor mats and seat covers.

Making the necessary adjustments to your vehicle whenever the season changes is one way to keep it around for a long time.

Source: https://www.carparts.com/blog/five-fall-car-care-tips/

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. It shields you from the elements and provides security and comfort. However, over time, roofs can develop issues that need attention. Recognizing the signs that your roof needs repair can save you from costly damage and ensure the longevity of your home. In this blog, we’ll explore the key indicators that it’s time to consider roof repairs.

• Missing or Damaged Shingles:
  • One of the most obvious signs of roof trouble is missing or damaged shingles. Wind, hail, and weathering can cause shingles to crack, curl, or be blown away. If you spot any of these issues, it’s time for a closer look.
• Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls:
  • Water stains inside your home are a clear indication of a roof leak. These stains can appear on your ceilings or walls and may signal a more significant issue that requires immediate attention.
• Moss or Algae Growth:
  • While moss and algae might seem harmless, they can damage your roof over time. Their presence often indicates excess moisture retention, which can lead to decay and deterioration.
• Sagging Roof Deck:
  • A sagging or uneven roof deck can suggest structural problems. If you notice dips or sags in your roofline, it’s crucial to have a professional assess the situation promptly.
• Granules in the Gutters:
  • Asphalt shingles often shed granules as they age. If you find an accumulation of granules in your gutters or downspouts, it’s a sign that your shingles are deteriorating.
• Increased Energy Bills:
  • A roof that’s no longer functioning optimally can lead to energy inefficiency. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills, your roof’s insulation and ventilation might be compromised.
• Daylight Visible in the Attic:
  • During a bright day, inspect your attic for any visible light coming through the roof boards. If light can penetrate, so can rain and moisture, indicating a problem with your roof’s integrity.
• Rotting or Warping Wood:
  • Check for signs of rot or warping in the wood decking beneath your shingles. This can result from prolonged exposure to moisture and can compromise the roof’s structural integrity.

Ignoring the signs that your roof needs repair can lead to more extensive and expensive issues down the road. If you’ve noticed any of these indicators, it’s essential to consult a professional roofing contractor to assess the situation and recommend the appropriate repairs. Addressing roof problems promptly will help ensure the continued protection and longevity of your home.